University Student Criticized for Including Account Details on Matriculation Flyer
A first-year student at Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University, Uli Campus in Anambra State, has sparked widespread controversy after posting a matriculation flyer online that included her bank account details for financial support. The incident, which occurred in February 2026, has ignited a heated debate about the normalization of begging on social media platforms.
Viral Tweet Draws Ire from Netizens
Praise Chukwuka, a graphics designer and computer science student, shared her matriculation flyer on X (formerly Twitter) on February 11, inviting the public to her ceremony scheduled for February 13. The flyer prominently featured a request for "financial support/congratulatory gifting," accompanied by her account details. While intended as an invitation, the post quickly went viral, with many users expressing irritation and concern over what they perceived as a blatant appeal for money.
Medical student @IamFahbulous responded with a subtle dig, tweeting, "I’m the first person in my lineage to see a crowdfunding-matriculation flyer." This comment garnered significant attention, amassing over 238,000 views, 4,600 likes, and hundreds of retweets and comments, most of which criticized Praise's approach.
Mixed Reactions Highlight Broader Issues
The backlash was swift and varied, with many netizens condemning the act as part of a growing trend of online begging. User @ardnaxeI commented, "So irritating. I’m appalled by how normalized begging has become. God help our young ones." Others, like @ELizabethFoloki, shared similar experiences, noting how such requests can dampen genuine congratulations.
However, not all responses were negative. Some defended Praise, suggesting she was merely making it easier for well-wishers to offer support. User @miss_endowed1 stated, "Well, perhaps there are people who are impressed by her reaching such heights and would like to send a gift and don't know how, she has just made it very easy for such folks."
Critics argued that this behavior trivializes academic achievements. User @wamba_yanick remarked, "Money has now been inserted in every happy event. You are matriculating. So why should I support you?" while @mr_felixvida quipped, "This one wan first secure a GDP before her CGPA," implying a focus on financial gain over academic performance.
Context and Related Stories
This incident is not isolated in Nigeria's online landscape. In a related report, a lady celebrated gaining admission into the University of Ibadan after multiple attempts, highlighting the challenges many face in accessing higher education. Another story featured a student who delayed university entry due to financial constraints, underscoring the economic pressures that may drive such appeals for support.
The controversy raises important questions about the intersection of social media, student culture, and financial necessity in Nigeria. As online platforms become increasingly integrated into daily life, events like matriculation ceremonies are often shared publicly, sometimes blurring the lines between celebration and solicitation.
Experts suggest that while crowdfunding can be a legitimate tool for students in need, transparency and context are crucial to avoid backlash. The case of Praise Chukwuka serves as a cautionary tale for young people navigating digital spaces, reminding them of the fine line between sharing milestones and perceived begging.
As debates continue, this incident reflects broader societal concerns about youth entrepreneurship, digital etiquette, and the economic realities facing Nigerian students. It remains to be seen how such practices will evolve in the future, but for now, the online community remains divided on the appropriateness of including financial appeals in personal milestones.
